SHOPPERS in Manchester are being urged not to give to city centre beggars - because the money is often used on drink and drug abuse.

The stark warning was made at the launch of a three-day road show at the Arndale Centre as part of the government's "Don't give to beggars on the street" campaign.

A count of city centre beggars by Greater Manchester Police in December found 90 per cent were supporting a habit, 74 per cent had a permanent address, and 70 per cent were drawing benefits. The Change For The Better drive wants to cut the number of beggars by telling the public why people beg - and at the same time helping the homeless.

Poster and radio ads already carry the message: "Would you give a beggar a pound to get high?"

Habits

Pc Judith Walmsley, who was recently awarded an OBE for her work with Manchester's homeless, said: "In Manchester, many who beg are supporting addictions to drug and alcohol - and so thousands of pounds given by the public every year are spent on supporting these habits. I strongly believe Manchester has some of the best services and support for anyone wanting to come off drugs, but as begging is so lucrative and takes so little effort, why change?

"If people did not give, beggars would not beg."

The campaign is being backed by Greater Manchester Police, the Big Issue, City Council Homeless Unit, and Manchester City Centre Management Company.

Message

The management company's Gill Shields said: "We need to get out a very strong message to people who use our city centre - 'please don't give to beggars'. There are better ways of helping those people in need. The road show will raise public awareness and give people a chance to talk to those at the front line, who are involved directly with helping those really in need.

"The scheme is part of a wider strategy to discourage begging in the city centre, which ensures that intimidating behaviour is tackled."

Change For The Better has received extensive support since its initial launch two years ago.

The fund is administered by the Community Foundation for Greater Manchester, and a selected panel reviews applications from local charities which need donations.